Army Powerlifting Returns To Form After COVID-19

The Army has held its powerlifting championships for the first time in two years.

The annual event was cancelled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, with Army gyms now allowed to open as restrictions have lifted, the 2021 championships took place in Minley.

Despite the lack of physical competitions, the Army powerlifters have kept in touch virtually.

Staff Sergeant Steve Baldock, secretary of Army Powerlifting, explained: "During the first lockdown, when most of the military gyms were completely shut, we didn't really push too much out, just those that wanted to share content and lift in their own time – we did.

"But, after the military gyms started opening up and the second lockdown came in, that's when we started opening up virtual competitions, then little competitions here and there.

"A bench one month, a squat and a deadlift and people just started sharing content with us and competitions started from there."

Over the past few years, Army Powerlifting has received a boost in popularity and SSgt Baldock thinks this factor of fitness is just as important in cardio when it comes to military training.

"The Army's gone away from running and cardio all the time and they're thinking about strength and conditioning and lifting weights correctly," he said.

“Lifting weights correctly can only help you with everyday military tasks and in your normal life."

Part of that popularity has seen female competitors flock to the sport.

Warrant Officer Class 2 Sheridan Lucas MBE has been a regular for years but is excited about the future for female powerlifting.

"These numbers have really jumped up over the years," she said. "And actually, COVID-19 has formed a really good positive for us.

"We actually have 70 females that are in this industry ready to lift and, hopefully, we'll see them in upcoming competitions.

"It's one of the most inclusive sports that we've got – there's absolutely no judgment in it."

She added: "Anyone can come along. It doesn't matter what level or standard you're at, come along, enjoy it, support each other, walk away with your head held high."